Tasting Notes
Region
Lovedale Road (LDR) Vineyard, Hunter Valley
The Story
Merlot was one of the first varieties we planted on our Lovedale Road (LDR) vineyard in the early 90’s. The LDR Vineyard was a former cattle grazing property, before it was regenerated by Joss and Anna De Iuliis. Merlot is a favourite of Joss’s and so Mike makes it to keep his dad happy.
The Wine
Aromatics of sensationally uplifted spice & pepper notes, with subtle cherry. An explosion of cranberries at the front of the palate that flows into a savoury finish with clove and pepper. A vibrant red with soft and structured tannins.
The Vintage
A cooler ripening period yielded elegant red wines with intricate fruit profiles. Breakthrough rainfall after a drought paved the way for an outstanding growing season. A cool summer and timely heat spikes fostered stress-free ripening, ensuring optimal flavour development and high natural acidity.
The Potential
Merlot has the potential for short-term ageing, but we really enjoy its bright characteristics and silky tannins right now. The choice is yours to drink up or stash away for five years.
The Match
In summer, drink alongside cheeses like gruyere, manchego and comté and charcuterie like proscuitto or bresaola. In winter, richer, heavier dishes like beef bourguignon will be a treat with the 2021 Special Release Merlot.
Winemaker
Michael De luliis & Conor Brasier
